dbx
DBX dB12 Active DI Box
Best active direct box for professional studio and touring musicians.
The dbx dB12 Active Direct Box is engineered for exceptional audio performance and robust durability. It features custom dbx mu-metal-shielded audio transformers and high-quality Neutrik connectors to preserve signal integrity. This active direct box includes a 3-way pad switch (0/20/40 dB) for accommodating various signal levels, a polarity invert switch for phase control, and a ground lift switch to eliminate hum. Its low-noise active circuitry and phantom power operation ensure a clean, professional sound. The rugged, stackable chassis with a stable footprint makes it ideal for studio, tour, and portable use.
$195.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
48
/ 67
#48 in Direct Boxes
Price vs Category Average
-26%
Below average
Channels
Single-Channel
/ Single-Channel
Who it's for
- Professional musicians needing pristine tone over long cable runs
- Live sound engineers managing diverse instruments and noisy stage environments
- Touring performers requiring gear that survives rigorous daily use
Who should skip it
- Minimalists wanting a simple setup without external power requirements
- Budget-conscious musicians seeking affordable passive DI alternatives
- Performers worried about unexpected power loss during critical live sets
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Custom mu-metal shielding ensures a pristine, noise-free signal path.
Build Durability
Rugged cast metal chassis stands up to demanding touring environments.
Input Versatility
Three-way pad switch handles everything from instruments to speaker-level signals.
Noise Suppression
Active circuitry and ground lift effectively eliminate unwanted hum and buzz.
Stackability
Contoured underside design allows for secure, space-saving multi-unit setups.
Component Quality
Premium Neutrik connectors and gold-plated contacts ensure reliable, long-term performance.
Key Specs
Channels
Single-Channel
Chassis
Desktop
Input Connectors
Analog XLR, Hi-Z 1/4" Input Jack, Parallel 1/4" Thru Jack
Output Connectors
Analog XLR
Pad Switch
3-Way 0/20/40 dB
Transformer
Premium Shielded Custom dbx Transformer
Power
+48V Phantom Operation
Warranty
4 Year
Features
- Preserves sonic integrity and true characteristics of the signal source
- Accommodates instrument, line, and speaker level signals with pad switch
- Ground lift switch solves potential hum and buzz problems
- Shielded cast metal chassis and custom-wound transformer ensure a clean signal
- Stackable chassis with unique contoured underside for secure stacking
- Phantom powered with green LED indicator
- Low-noise active circuitry
- Includes Flat/High-Cut Filter Switch
- Premium Performance with custom dbx transformer
- Rugged Design
- Stackable Chassis with Durable Rubber Foot
- Gold-plated Neutrik XLR Connector
- Premium Chrome Toggle Switches
- Hi-Z 1/4" Input Jack
- Parallel 1/4" Thru Jack
- Transformer Isolated
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the DBX dB12 Active DI Box for its exceptional build quality and robust reliability. Users frequently highlight its ability to deliver a clean, transparent signal, making it a dependable choice for both studio and live sound applications. The sturdy construction ensures it withstands rigorous use, providing peace of mind for professionals. Its consistent performance and durable design are recurring positive points, establishing it as a trusted piece of equipment.
Know before you buy
No, the dB12 is powered via +48V phantom power from your mixing console or audio interface. A green LED indicator on the unit confirms when it is receiving power.
Yes. The dB12 features a 3-way pad switch (0/20/40 dB) that allows you to safely connect instrument, line, or even speaker-level signals without overloading the input.
The ground lift switch disconnects the signal ground from the chassis, which is an effective way to eliminate ground loops that cause audible hum or buzz in your audio signal.
The Thru jack allows you to pass your instrument signal through to an amplifier or monitor simultaneously while sending a balanced signal to your mixer or interface, which is ideal for live performances or tracking.
Yes, the dB12 is built with a rugged, shielded cast metal chassis designed to withstand the rigors of travel. It also features a unique contoured underside that allows multiple units to be stacked securely.
The High-Cut filter helps remove unwanted high-frequency noise or harshness from your signal, providing a smoother, more natural sound when working with instruments that might otherwise sound too bright.
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